Sweden Declares Mining of Critical Minerals a National Security Interest to Reduce Dependence on China
Sweden has announced that the mining of critical metals and rare earth minerals is now considered a national security interest. This strategic move, declared by Sweden's Enterprise Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ebba Busch on July 23, 2026, aims to reduce the country's reliance on China for these essential resources. China currently dominates the global production of rare earth minerals, accounting for approximately 69% of the market, which gives it significant leverage in international trade disputes. Sweden's decision is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its supply chain and ensure the availability of critical minerals necessary for various industries. The state-owned mining company LKAB is at the forefront of this initiative, with its Kiruna mine housing the Per Geijer deposit, a significant source of rare earth oxides in the European Union.